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The 1983 Honda City Turbo, paired with the iconic Motocompo folding scooter, is currently up for auction on Bring a Trailer. This unique pairing is a vintage automotive gem that brings together practicality and fun in a way that is rare even by today’s standards. Below, we’ll explore the key features and history of this dynamic duo, making it a perfect fit for urban enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Honda City Turbo
The Honda City Turbo is a compact hatchback that was originally designed for the Japanese market. This model, with its turbocharged 1.2-liter engine, delivers 108 horsepower — a significant upgrade over its standard variant. While the power might seem modest today, the City Turbo weighs only about 1600 pounds (725 kg), making it a nimble and fun car to drive around tight city streets​.
In 1981, when it was first launched, the City Turbo was a standout in its segment. It was designed to be an affordable yet sporty city car, with a design that maximized interior space while maintaining a compact footprint. The turbocharged engine made it more engaging to drive compared to typical urban hatchbacks, with a five-speed manual transmission adding to its driving pleasure​.
The Motocompo
What truly sets this pairing apart, however, is the Motocompo scooter. This 49cc folding scooter was designed specifically to fit in the trunk of the City Turbo, offering a convenient way for owners to avoid traffic congestion and complete their journey when parking far from their destination. The scooter folds down into a compact size, allowing it to be stored neatly in the car’s trunk​.
Though the Motocompo is far from a speed demon, with a top speed of 30 km/h (18.6 mph), it is the perfect solution for short-distance commuting. It adds a layer of versatility and charm that is hard to find in modern vehicles. The scooter’s nostalgic design, which folds up much like a transformer’s cassette tape, has earned it a cult following among collectors​.
A Gem for Car Collectors
This pairing, though not commercially successful in its time, has become a sought-after item for car collectors. Enthusiasts appreciate the cleverness of the design and the practicality that was ahead of its time. In 2023, Honda released a modern iteration of the Motocompo, called the Motocompacto, which takes the original idea into the electric age, but the classic 1983 model remains a collector's favorite​.
Honda City Turbo & Motocompo Current Auction Details
Both the Honda City Turbo and Motocompo are in excellent condition, with the car showing around 45,000 miles on the odometer. While the City Turbo has had a fresh paint job, everything else remains in original form, including the 1980s-style interior. This makes it a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to own a piece of Honda history.
1983 Honda City Turbo & Motocompo Specifications
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Why This Pairing is Special
The pairing of the Honda City Turbo and Motocompo offers a blend of performance, practicality, and nostalgia. It’s a combination that was ahead of its time in terms of urban mobility, and today, it represents a charming piece of automotive history. Whether you're a Honda fan, a car collector, or simply someone who appreciates quirky design, this auction is a rare opportunity to own a unique and functional pair that has stood the test of time.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to add a piece of Honda history to your collection or simply want a fun and practical urban duo, the Honda City Turbo and Motocompo are the perfect pairing. With a current auction ending on February 19, it’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
🚗🛵 Bid Now on Bring a Trailer and Own a Unique Pair!
